How Augmentative and Alternative Communication Helps in Non-Verbal Autism

Communication is such an important part of everything we do, whether it's a gesture, a shrug, or a conversation. However, there are millions of people in America alone living with Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD, who struggle to communicate. 

The Communication Challenge in Non-Verbal Autism

Some people with ASD are known as nonspeaking; these individuals have significant challenges with talking and communicating. They do not produce and use sounds the same way that you and I do, but that does not mean that they cannot communicate entirely. By some measure, over half of all communication is nonverbal anyway, but it depends on the context and people speaking–the point is that there are other ways to be heard. 

The real challenge lies in finding ways that nonverbal people can communicate effectively. Until recently, many people with non-verbal autism were assumed to have limited cognitive ability simply because they could not speak. This misconception can lead to frustration, isolation, and a lack of access to appropriate education or support. However, advances in our understanding of autism and communication have shown that many non-verbal people can have intact or even advanced comprehension skills. The key lies in providing them with tools that suit their unique needs. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) has emerged as a powerful method to bridge this gap.

What is Augmentative Communication?

In many cases, language or just sounds can be used and understood, even with people who do not speak; it is a matter of augmenting their speech with other tools. Augmentative Communication refers to methods that support or enhance a person’s existing communication abilities. These tools range from simple picture boards and gestures to advanced speech-generating devices and communication apps. Rather than replacing natural speech, these devices are intended to supplement it or provide alternatives when speech is impossible. For the non-verbal autistic person, AAC can offer new avenues of communicating, learning, and self-expression, enabling them to be more involved in everyday life.

Alternative Communication 

For those who have tried augmented communication or are simply unable to speak at all, there are plenty of other ways they can learn to communicate. Alternative communication includes methods that do not rely on any verbal speech at all, such as sign language, picture-based systems, or symbol boards. These tools are adapted to meet a client's physical, cognitive, and sensory needs, offering a personalised approach to expression. In many cases, alternative communication becomes a primary method for connecting with others, reducing frustration, and supporting emotional and social development in meaningful, lasting ways.

ACC’s Key Tools 

Communication methods are generally divided into two main categories: 1) Unaided communication, which does not require any external tools, so things as signing, gestures, and vocalisation. 2) Aided communication, which relies on technology, picture boards, or any other external tools. 

Unaided Tools 

1. Sign Language – Systems like ASL (American Sign Language) use hand shapes, movements, and facial expressions to convey meaning.
2. Gestures – Waving, pointing, thumbs-up, or nodding are everyday examples that can carry specific meanings without the need for words.
3. Facial Expressions – A smile, frown, or raised eyebrows can indicate mood, intent, or response in communication.
4. Vocalisations – Non-word sounds like laughing, humming, or grunting can serve a communicative purpose when used consistently.

Unaided tools are useful for those with good motor control and understanding of symbolic gestures, but they depend on the communication partner recognising and interpreting them correctly.

Aided Tools 

Low-Tech Tools

1. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) – A structured system where users hand over picture cards to express needs or thoughts.
2. Communication Boards or Books – Laminated boards with symbols, words, or pictures that a user can point to in order to communicate.
3. Alphabet Boards – Users can spell out words by pointing to individual letters.
4. Object Symbols – Real or miniature objects used to represent activities or concepts (helpful for those with visual impairments or cognitive challenges).

High-Tech Tools

1. Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs) – Devices like the Tobii Dynavox or GoTalk that produce spoken words or phrases when symbols or buttons are activated.
2. AAC Apps on Tablets – Apps such as Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, or LAMP Words for Life offer dynamic communication interfaces for iPads or tablets.
3. Eye-Tracking Technology – For individuals with severe motor impairments, these systems allow users to control devices and speak by moving only their eyes.
4. Text-to-Speech Software – Especially helpful for literate users, this allows typed text to be converted into spoken language.

Aided tools can be customised to fit a user’s age, ability, and preferences, and they often evolve over time with the individual’s development. 

How AAC Supports Language and Social Development

The process of learning to use language is not always a simple one, but with the right tools and professionals to teach, it is possible to make immense progress. Luckily, there are many specialists—such as speech pathologists with the requisite speech pathology online—who are trained to teach communication tools to people with ASD.

These specialists can work with clients, trying different aided and unaided tools to see what works best for each person. Some people will resonate with picture boards and symbols, while others will prefer to use signs or gestures. The bottom line is that no one solution works for everyone. 

The Long-Term Impact

Learning to communicate has a massive impact on the quality of life and independence, with one study finding that learning to use ACC can have positive impacts in the long run for many people with ASD. 

A massive benefit of improved communication is that people with ASD can more accurately tell their carers and supporters what they want or need. Imagine how frustrating life would be if you could not tell any of the people closest to you how you feel or what you need–that has been a reality lived by thousands. Accurate communication can also improve care and access to care, diagnostics, and overall stress. 

A Pathway to Empowerment

Communication is everything, but there is no right way to do it, wether its through a picture board, sign language, text-to-speech software, or SGD doesn't matter. What matters is that those without a voice are given one and get the help they need from the skilled and empathetic professionals out there who really care and know how to make a difference using science.